Southern African Coastal vulnerability assessment

Abstract

Failure to understand the linkages between the biophysical Earth systems and the ecological, socioeconomic and external governance systems within which man operates in the coastal zone, can spell disaster for even the most robust development or business. The CSIR coastal systems group uses specialist skills in coastal engineering, geographic engineering systems and numerical modelling to assess and map vulnerable coastal ecosystems to develop specific adaptation measures and coastal protection options to mitigate the physical impacts of global climate change. In this presentation, a few case studies will be showcased on the highly interrelated study area of coastal safety and vulnerability, climate change and setback lines for the South African coast. These studies will illustrate examples of state-of-the-art mathematical and engineering technologies applied to harnessing wave energy, oceanographic forecasting (early notification systems), coastal erosion and sedimentation and working with nature for ecosystem health in and around South African ports.